Director of Government and Community Relations

Carbondale • Carbondale, IL

1d

About The Position

The Director of Government and Community Relations develops and maintains purposeful relationships with external stakeholders, including municipal, county, and state-level community-based organizations, community partners, school districts, and elected officials. The incumbent must reside in the Southern Illinois Region.

As the Chancellor’s Office main representative to elected officials, community organizations, and civic leaders, the Director strengthens stakeholder and agency relationships to advance SIUC’s priorities and long-term goals. The role educates decision-makers and community partners about issues important to SIUC, including higher education access and regional development, and works with university leaders to align strategy with relationships. The Director promotes SIUC’s mission, vision, and strategic initiatives and coordinates with the SIU System Office of Governmental and Public Affairs.

The position is with the Office of the Chancellor at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in business, public administration, political science, higher education, or another degree related to the position.
• At least 5 years of experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field; preferably in higher education.
• Proven experience building and maintaining relationships with government officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrated knowledge of legislative processes and policy development at local, state, and federal levels.
• Excellent critical thinking, organizational, multitasking, and communication skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to exercise diplomacy with grace and professional dignity.
• Ability to work in a high-pressure, high-stakes, fast-paced environment while maintaining a high level of professionalism.
• Ability to follow through and follow up to ensure completion of critical tasks.
• Commitment to preparation and being prepared.
• Experience managing multiple high-level, high-stakes tasks simultaneously.
• Must reside in the Southern Illinois Region.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in government relations, public affairs, or a related field, preferably in higher education.
• Proven experience building and maintaining relationships with government officials.
• Demonstrated knowledge of legislative processes and policy development at local, state, and federal levels.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the Chancellor’s Office main representative to elected officials, community organizations, and civic leaders at municipal, county, state, and federal levels.
• Strengthen relationships with key stakeholders and agencies to advance SIUC’s priorities and long-term goals.
• Educate decision-makers and community partners about issues important to SIUC, including higher education access and regional development.
• Work with other university leaders to align strategy with relationships.
• Promote SIUC’s mission, vision, and strategic initiatives with authenticity and enthusiasm.
• Coordinate with the SIU System Office of Governmental and Public Affairs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director